Legal Researcher

Legal Researcher – Chicago Tenant Rights - Immediate Start

Job Summary:

The Legal Researcher specializing in Chicago tenant rights is responsible for conducting comprehensive research on housing laws, ordinances, and policies affecting tenants within the city of Chicago. This role involves gathering and analyzing legal information, summarizing findings, and supporting attorneys or advocates in tenant rights cases. The Legal Researcher contributes to ensuring compliance with housing laws and supports efforts to protect tenant rights through legal documentation, advocacy, and education.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Legal Research and Analysis:

• Conduct in-depth research on Chicago tenant laws, including the Chicago Residential Landlord-Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) and relevant state and federal housing statutes.
• Analyze case law, administrative rulings, and municipal ordinances related to tenant rights.
• Present research findings clearly and succinctly to inform both internal teams and external stakeholders.

1. Case Support:

• Assist attorneys and tenant advocates in preparing for cases by gathering evidence, reviewing leases, and identifying legal precedents.
• Provide written memos, briefs, and reports to support litigation or advocacy efforts.
• Monitor updates in housing laws and regulations that may affect ongoing cases.

1. Documentation and Database Management:

• Organize and maintain databases of legal resources, including statutes, case law, and tenant advocacy materials.
• Develop and update templates for legal documents such as demand letters, complaints, and petitions.

1. Outreach and Education:

• Collaborate with community organizations to create informational resources on tenant rights.
• Prepare educational materials or presentations on housing laws for workshops or public events.
• Respond to inquiries from tenants or stakeholders regarding their legal rights and obligations.

1. Policy and Advocacy Support:

• Assist in drafting policy recommendations to improve tenant protections.
• Research and analyze the impact of proposed housing policies and ordinances.
• Support advocacy campaigns aimed at strengthening tenant rights in Chicago.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in legal studies, public policy, or a related field; a Juris Doctor (JD) degree or paralegal certification is preferred but not required.
• Strong understanding of housing law, tenant rights, and legal research methodologies.
• Proficiency in legal research tools (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis) and government resources.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex legal information into accessible summaries.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to social justice and tenant advocacy.

This position is well-suited for those dedicated to promoting housing fairness, supporting tenant rights, and applying legal knowledge to tackle systemic challenges impacting Chicago renters.